News.

JULY- SEPTEMBER Wellington Light Opera’s production of The Merry Widow was a joy to play as it’s full of gorgeous melodies and waltzes. We played to almost full houses in Southwards Museum, Wellington, Palmerston North and Napier. Again Hugh Mc Millan was the MD and as usual it was a joy to play under his encouragement and appreciation of his orchestra.

JUNE: Mozarts glorious Magic Flute was NBR Opera’s first production of the year. A highlight for me always, is when Maestro Wynne Davies is in town to conduct the opera season. Following directly on it’s heels was Orchestra Wellingtons Subscription Concert 1 with Beethovens 9 symphony as it’s headline act. This was another successful collaboration with the Orpheus Choir.

MAY: Sea Symphony by Vaughn Williams not often performed work was the first collaboration with Orchestra Wellington and Orpheus Choir for the year. A great conducting job by our colleague, timpanist Brett Stewart who is now the Musical Director of Orpheus. Tommy’s Real Estate Ball was a very glamous event held at Te Papa. I must admit it is great seeing everyone elegantly turned out as it is such a special occasion.

APRIL: I had a delightful time playing for the Kapiti Chorale production of Hiawatha MD Conductor Eric Sidoti. This production was made even more special by having the composer Robert Hanson who travelled from his home in America to give expert guidance to us.

MARCH: It was lovely to be contacted by Jan Mc Andrews for the IPENZ conference Dinner at the MFC. Jan hired me some years ago when she was with TranzPower so I was delighted that she had decided I was going to be the surprise act for the dinner. Spent a busy day juggling time and distance between the CubaDuppa Festival for Orchestra Wellington and a beautiful Wedding ceremony for Ange and Rob at their glorious family home in the Ohariau Valley. Institute of IT Professionals, NZ expo conference held at the TSB Arena where a cameo stage was created in the stands along with mood lighting, dry ice and drapery provided a impressive back drop to perform in.

Elena

Hello and welcome to the site of Elena Violinist. Elena is one of New Zealand’s most talented and innovative violinists. Her ability to breathe new life into classical compositions by drawing on the musical and cultural traditions of New Zealand Maori, defines both her work and her reputation. Elena is a truly unique entertainer, who’s signature performances are known for their passion and personality.